The Australian Christian Lobby has condemned the latest horrific and debauched ‘art’ spectacle proposed by Hermann Nitsch at Tasmania’s MONA attraction and has called on Premier Will Hodgman to withdraw taxpayer support of it.

“Like so much of MONA’s ‘art’, this production is an affront to civil and decent society. It is a debased occultist ritual clothed in the guise of art,” ACL Tasmanian director Mark Brown said.

The 150.Action ‘blood ritual’ is scheduled to take place at Macquaire Point, Hobart in June.

“I applaud Lord Mayor Hickey and Mr Wilkie for their clear and uncompromising opposition to the event,” Mr Brown said.

“As the Lord Mayor pointed out, many religious people would especially find this imagery highly offensive.

“Drinking blood, mock crucifixions, naked bodies oozing blood out of their genitalia and frenzied “disciples” cavorting in blood, semen and guts while church bells chime in the background – who in their right mind would think this is acceptable in a modern civil society?

“If MONA want to put on shows like this, they should do so without State Government partnership and taxpayers’ money.”

Mr Brown said it was disappointing to hear Mr Hodgman say that the State Government was partnering with Mona because “it brings extraordinary economic returns for our state”.

“Most Tasmanians would agree that just because something may support the economy it doesn’t mean it should happen,” Mr Brown said.

“As Tourism Minister and Premier, is this really how Mr Hodgman would want our beautiful state to be known and remembered by tourists?”